In 2024, the stakes are higher than ever, with multi-million-dollar purses on the line in some of the races. Let's take a closer look at some of the significant races and the purses up for grabs.
Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies – $2,000,000
Run on November 1, the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies field includes a group of two-year-old fillies racing for a $2 million purse. The race is run at 1-1/16 miles and serves as a springboard to stardom for the next generation. Usually, it sends the winner into winter as an early favourite for the Kentucky Oaks the following year.
Breeders' Cup Distaff – $2,000,000
The Breeders' Cup Distaff on November 2 brings together the finest fillies and mares, three years old and upwards, over 1-1/8 miles on dirt. A $2 million purse enables most of the greatest females to take part in the sport. The Distaff often holds any number of future Hall of Fame horses, adding much to the event's high standing within the Championships.
Breeders' Cup Turf – $5,000,000
The Breeders' Cup Turf is one of the richest races of the event with an extraordinary purse of $5 million. The race is run on November 2 over 1½ miles on the grass and is open to three-year-olds and upward. This showpiece attracts the finest international turf horses, with it being a global highlight, where entries often travel from Europe and beyond.
Breeders' Cup Classic – $7,000,000
The Breeders' Cup Classic is the Breeders' Cup jewel, carrying a $7 million purse, making it the richest race of the weekend. The Classic will take place on November 2 over 1¼ miles and is a Grade 1 race that often decides the Horse of the Year. Open to horses aged three and older, this is an event filled with thrilling finishes and fierce competition.
Of course, this is one of the most highly anticipated races for bettors, and the FanDuel Breeders' Cup odds will be anxiously watched as the field takes shape. A victory here brings a really big reward and cements a horse's legacy in the history books.
Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf – $2,000,000
Also on November 2, the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf will bring together the best three-year-old and older females on turf, going 1-3/8 miles. A $2 million purse is on offer in a race that often sees displays of tactical genius and pulsating finishes. These races show the versatility and stamina needed by a top-class turf mare.
Conclusion
The 2024 Breeders' Cup World Championships will again promise thrilling races with great prizes for the race participants. Other than the $7 million Classic event, two highly competitive events are going to be the $2 million Distaff and Turf races.
Potential winners in these events will take home hefty cash prizes, but also their place in the sport’s history books. The Championships have stood the test of time to create a platform where champions are crowned and legacies created.